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Substance use among college-age adults is of interest due to high levels of use and low levels of treatment access and engagement relative to other adults. Data collected from 1,972 clients in residential services were analyzed to investigate differences in use patterns, treatment outcomes, and other life area problems. Participants completed an Addiction Severity Index (ASI) and the University of Rhode Island Change Assessment (URICA) at baseline, and an ASI and Treatment Services Review at 1-month and 6-month postdischarge interviews. Almost a quarter (24.1%) of participants were college age (18–25 years old). They were more likely to be White and male, and less likely to complete treatment although they had a longer average length of stay. College-age adults improved on all outcome measures, and posttreatment service use shows significant difference between college-age and older participants. Implications for practice are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on spiritual mechanisms underlying substance abuse behavior change in faith-based substance abuse treatment. Several definitions of faith-based organizations are being discussed. An integrative conceptual framework articulating connections between spiritual intervention components, behavior change processes and substance abuse outcomes is presented. Faith-based substance abuse treatment programs concerns the distinction between religion and spirituality. The article states that the ecological perspective and the model of social work practice provide for the incorporation of the element of personal spirituality, and therefore spiritual change, in viewing any individual presenting for services. A number of human and social service organizations have been addressed by faith-based programs. It has been found that religious or spiritual involvement may serve as a protective factor against the development of substance abuse problems. During substance abuse treatment some spiritual changes occur and substance abuse interventions may be effective for those for whom religion or spirituality is salient.

The article presents an analysis of literature on substance abuse among U.S. Latinos. High fertility and high immigration rates have made Latinos the largest minority in the U.S. Therefore, alcohol and illicit drug use within this population give reason for concern. Beginning in early adolescence, Latinos and native Americans lead the nation in alcohol and illicit drug use. They also have a high need for alcohol and illicit drug treatment compared to Whites and African-Americans. Even though family and peers have been shown to play an important role in the etiology of substance abuse across ethnic groups, research indicates that important differences exist within ethnic groups on these and other factors. In the article, research concerning ethnic differences has been reviewed in order to gain an understanding of the patterns and trajectories of substance use within the Latino community. Prevention and treatment interventions specific to Latinos have been described, and gaps in the literature are noted. Finally, implications of the current research findings for social workers and recommendations for future research have been discussed.